A Europe of Diasporas was Presented at the Congress of FUEN

24/05/2016

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On 19 May 2016 the Congress of the Federal Union of European Nationalities (FUEN) was officially opened. During the congress the current situation of different minorities in Europe was addressed. Nicolas Tavitian, director of AGBU Europe, attended the Congress, the first time a Armenian organization had the opportunity to be represented at the Congress. He had an opportunity to present the project "A Europe of Diasporas".

In his opening speech Hans Heinrich Hansen, long-time president of FUEN, addressed the refugee crisis in Europe: “There is no simple solution”, according to the President. Hansen made clear that FUEN wants to make a contribution to solve the problems, and continued with the general objectives of the organisation. “FUEN is important because it is working on the level of the people in question.” Hansen, who belongs to the German minority in Denmark, called for more recognition and appreciation for the minorities in Europe. “Everywhere we need the freedom to express our opinion, as an individual or as a group.”

The speakers of the conference made clear how important language is for the minorities. VDG-Chair Gaida gave a thorough analysis in relation to the history. Dr Aleksandra Oszmianska-Pagett, Member of the Committee of Experts of the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages of the Council of Europe pointed out how important for fostering a sense of identity it is to promote the languages of the minorities.

To learn more about the congress follow the links below.

FUEN is the European umbrella organisation of the autochthonous, national minorities / ethnic groups in Europe. In 2014, FUEN has around 90 member organisations altogether.